महाकवि वीर और उनका जम्बूसामिचरिउ एक समीक्षात्मक अध्ययन

Summary

This is a critical study of the 11th-century Apabhramsha epic *Jambusamichariu* by poet Veera. The work, preserved in a manuscript at the Amer Shastra Bhandar, was composed by Veera, son of poet Devadatta, in the latter half of the 11th century. The epic follows Jain biographical conventions, using the frame story of King Shrenik and Gautam Ganadhar to narrate the past lives of Jambuswami. The poet demonstrates that a person's present is the result of past actions, but one can improve the future through new religious practices. The central narrative details the spiritual journey of Jambuswami, who, after hearing of his past births from a sage, struggles between worldly attachment and renunciation. His mother attempts to keep him attached to worldly life by enlisting a thief, Vidyuchchara, to dissuade him from asceticism. Ultimately, Jambuswami prevails, takes initiation from Sudharma Swami, and attains liberation. The study notes that while the poet employs all traditional Apabhramsha poetic conventions, including Sanskrit self-praise, the work's primary aim is to show that only through continuous spiritual practice can one conquer attachment and worldly circumstances. The epic's craftsmanship includes vivid descriptions of nature, cities, and women, often using a complex, alliterative style reminiscent of the poet Bana. The work is described as a Shringar-Veer Mahakavya, but the study argues its ultimate resolution is in the Shanta rasa, as the poet's enthusiasm lies in awakening a spirit of renunciation and triumphing over sensual desires. The language is fluent and clear, employing onomatopoeia and similes effectively. The study concludes that the epic holds an important place in the Apabhramsha biographical tradition.